They may have lost Popstars UK, but Liberty X won where it mattered - with a debut album packed full of R&B-infused bops, sleek production, and undeniable vocals. But over 20 years later, does "Thinking It Over" still hold up?In this episode, Chris and Chantel Nicole give a brutally honest track-by-track review, breaking down the production, lyrics, vocals, and everything in between. Join us on Patreon!: https://www.patreon.com/CCTVPOPSFollow us on social media: https://linktr.ee/cctvpops
- 0:00 - Intro
- 1:33 - "Thinking It Over" Album Info
- 2:34 - Album Cover
- 3:40 - "Thinking It Over"
- 10:15 - "Just A Little"
- 16:01 - "Doin' It"
- 21:35 - "Wanting Me Tonight"
- 26:12 - "Got To Have Your Love"
- 31:43 - "No Clouds"
- 36:09 - "Everyday"
- 39:21 - "Saturday"
- 42:04 - "Holding On For You"
- 46:40 - "I Got What You Want"
- 49:35 - "Feel The Rush"
- 52:27 - "Right Here Right Now"
- 55:14 - "Dream About It"
- 58:58 - "Never Give Up"
- 1:01:22 - Cut or Keep
- 1:04:00 - Overall Thoughts & Final Rating
References:
- Just A Little Tour [FULL] https://youtu.be/kIJ6F4_D6Sg?si=5yaXO-v0KFzz7rKp
- “Thinking It Over” MV https://youtu.be/CqaJ3bmdVOI?si=y5B_skbY1HER4uhW
- “Thinking It Over” Live at TOTP https://youtu.be/hOIxOz1AKek?si=wGUtDHIg0YQeAvCn
- “Doin’ It” MV https://youtu.be/2zcY8rlBBiQ?si=Y4XqfbceohofVOyh
- “Doin’ It” Live at TOTP https://youtu.be/7lu6-og9ZEM?si=Y4QvJIphyxsguK6v
- “Just A Little” MV https://youtu.be/58O8SVBxLDQ?si=SDerPZxxQcGenRvR
- “Just A Little” Live at Record of the Year 2002 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3qXp3iIzKRI
- “Got To Have Your Love” MV https://youtu.be/pdvdzBam-Kg?si=tFwm2lDYyU14Yjx9
- “Got To Have Your Love” Live at CD:UK https://youtu.be/AWqT941uOQA?si=atPOHitUZIOkGb7I
- “Holding On For You” MV https://youtu.be/G3pJkCLRRao?si=lzv0rgEfCDlGNn4H
- “Holding On For You” Live at CD:UK https://youtu.be/sR4Y-zydFQE?si=0ovx_yBapWMOqHp8
00:00:00 --> 00:00:15 Imagine not being chosen to be in the nation's group, only to form another one that's way more successful, has way better music, and a bang-in debut album. This is our track-by-track through Liberty X's album, Thinking It Over. Thinking It Over.
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00:00:37 --> 00:01:01 Yes. And a big special shout out to our Patreon producers, Emily, George, Lily, Louis, Julianne, Janelle, Shaquille, Jonathan, Jasmine, Darius, Red. And we actually have one new one as well, which is brand new as of this recording. So let me just make sure I have your name correct. Yes. Oh, my gosh. You know, every time I get ready to do something, a new person pops up. I'm like, who's that? Which is amazing. Thank you all so much. Jesse. Hello, Jesse.
00:01:01 --> 00:01:27 Hello, Jesse. Hey, Jesse. Hey, Jesse. We're so excited that you're here. Let us know. We sent you a DM already. So, yeah, we're excited to learn about why you decided to become a producer and what you want to hear from us. And you would also like to help us choose episode topics. You can join us at patreon.com slash cctvpops. And you can choose episodes, like I mentioned, because Ren, our producer, actually suggested Liberty X. So here we are.
00:01:28 --> 00:01:51 Awesome. I love that we have such active members. All right, guys. So, Thinking It Over. It was originally titled To Those Who Wait, and it is their debut album. And it was eventually retitled To Thinking It Over Everywhere except for Japan. And it was released in the UK in May of 2002. Wow, many, many moons ago. Wow.
00:01:51 --> 00:02:00 Mm-hmm.
00:02:00 --> 00:02:29 Yes, and peaking at number three in the UK charts and making an impact across Europe, the album was very successful and spawned five singles and a nationwide tour, which we actually watched together. Yes, this is true. Last time you came over to my place, we had a really great time. It was a good show. So we will now go track by track to discuss the production, vocals and lyrics and give our ratings for each song. And please note, viewer discretion is advised. Your fave will be criticized.
00:02:29 --> 00:02:51 okay getting right into the album cover of thinking it over it features the five members of liberty x and a v formation wearing black outfits i mean they look like they're ready for the club they look like they're ready for life yeah it kind of looks like they're like in a basement or something though like if you look at the background yes like they're in a bunker like what is what is happening
00:02:51 --> 00:03:11 the underdogs are coming up to the surface. Oh. Yeah. Yes. They do look really cool, though. I love that Kelly is kind of right in the front because she does have the most distinctive voice, I would say, out of the five. And then, yeah, they all look very confident. This is very true. I will say that I'm quite surprised that they had
00:03:12 --> 00:03:36 a black lead, like a black center, essentially, you know? I mean, but it's Britpop. It's a little bit different than out here. I feel like if it was American group, she would have been like somewhere in the back. But I think it looks nice. She is the only one that is there. So I think that is another reason why this group stood out to me. When you showed me them, I was like, oh, she's the only one. Oh, she's singing the most lines. Okay, cool. So I think it's interesting for sure. Mm-hmm.
00:03:37 --> 00:04:03 Let's get into the music then. First up we have Thinkin' It Over, which was done by Tony Ann Kelly of Liberty X, Stephen Hart, Mary Susan Applegate, Pete Devereux, and the Wide Boys, also known as Jim Sullivan and Eddie Craig. And this was released originally as a white label promo due to the band's negative reputation that was pushed by the media, and the group wanted the music to speak for itself.
00:04:03 --> 00:04:26 The single eventually peaked at number five in the UK singles chart upon its release in September 2001. Ooh, number five is a good number. It is. All right. This one is interesting. Right off the gate, the title track lays it down. The Liberty X Manifesto. Slinky, mid-tempo, and effortlessly smooth. I feel like this song...
00:04:26 --> 00:04:45 It's got this funky bass line, this slight garage-y beat, and it feels a lot more mature than your average pop debut. The production is layered with these vocoder effects here and there. Nothing too crazy. And there's a groovy synth line that feels like very early. I don't want to say Timbaland, but maybe not that. Maybe like...
00:04:46 --> 00:05:14 Artful Dodger and Craig David together and all saints, if they were produced by Alfred, Artful Dodger, I think just because of the harmonies and the way the chorus is kind of, the hook is like catchy, but it's restrained the way like Shazne might kind of deliver something. So I think it's really cool. I will say, you know, I don't know why, but you know, every time I try to spell out their name, I fail. I don't know what this is. The L to add to the B to the, I can't do it. Even now I can't do it, but I love it.
00:05:14 --> 00:05:38 I love it. Apparently, I'm illiterate. But yeah, I can't do it again. L to the I to the B to the E to... Okay, I got it. I got it. I got it. R to the T. Did you? Okay, there you go. I was like, you didn't finish it before you said you got it. I know. But that's the part where I usually fall apart. That's the part where I fall apart. I think the conversational lyrics are great. I can't think of a single set of friends that haven't talked about a significant...
00:05:38 --> 00:05:56 other or like a potential lover with friends like we all do it oh yeah then you have like these multiple perspectives delivered with catchy melodies and it's supplemented by the harmonies so i like is because i i'm gonna think i'm not thinking it over kind of girl like give my ass time to figure out if i like you or not like relax chill out like give me time so i like this one
00:05:56 --> 00:06:19 Yes. Yeah, the production's really cool. Like, it does have all those influences you said, and it does just have... Yeah, it really is just the perfect example of this kind of UK garage-intinged pop R&B thing that was quite big at the time. Yes. And just that mix of the acoustic guitar...
00:06:19 --> 00:06:35 with the UK Garage kind of snappy beat, is just such a good sound. Like, I'm amazed. I mean, it's still around. Like, it's never fully left. But I'm amazed that more Western music, and even K-pop and stuff, hasn't used it more, actually.
00:06:35 --> 00:06:53 Oh, yeah. Because it's just so cool. But yeah, I do often say that with Liberty X, what differentiates a lot of their music from other pop groups and other co-ed groups as well is that they do take advantage of the female-male dynamic in a lot of their songs. And this one...
00:06:54 --> 00:07:09 you do get both perspectives. And you get more than just the female male. Like you said, you get the, you know, Kelly kind of being the one, kind of not sure. And the other two girls being like, oh my gosh, stay away. And then you have Kevin just being like...
00:07:09 --> 00:07:39 He's trying to defend himself a little bit. I like you. Like, what's good? Yeah. Forget my past. Yes. And then Tony, you know, he doesn't get any leads in this, but his harmonies are super prominent. It's like he's just supporting his friend because he's defending himself to this woman. He's like, nah, he's a cool guy. He's a cool guy. I promise. Yeah. So it's fun. And I like that neither side really gives. Like the boys aren't pushing too hard and the girls are not letting themselves get too swayed by what Kevin is singing either. They're like, I'm thinking it over.
00:07:41 --> 00:07:53 So I just think as a whole, the storytelling of it, like you said, is really great. And yeah, it is just such a cool track. What did you think of the music video, though? The music video with the multiples of them.
00:07:54 --> 00:08:13 Not much of a budget here. You know what? No. But I mean, it's one way to get people to remember your face. One way to get people to remember the group as a whole. Because it is strange to see multiples of any person, but let alone five. There's about 50, 11 people in the screen all together.
00:08:13 --> 00:08:29 If you were to add it all up, I think it's simple. They look cool and they look sophisticated. And I think that's very important considering who their competition was, their direct competition. So it's good that they had like the sleek, cool competition.
00:08:29 --> 00:08:45 you know, um, was it like a loft kind of studio? Yeah. So it makes them look a lot cooler. The black, the sleek club outfits, even though they never leave the house, you know, like, yeah, yeah. That's like always a vibe. Always. Yeah.
00:08:45 --> 00:09:15 Yeah, I mean, look, the whole kind of B-roll of the New York skyline. Yeah. And then the fact that you really only ever see one corner of this living room. Like, it was just very obvious that it was not a real place. You know what I mean? I guess the shot of the girls lying down on the couch and kind of the high shot over them. Yeah. It was maybe the most interesting one. Yeah, because otherwise it's just, it's not much happens here.
00:09:15 --> 00:09:31 Yeah, at least give them a different corner to stand in. I'm crying. For continuity, no. They said for continuity is what we're getting at. And the performances initially are quite funny. That dance routine is...
00:09:31 --> 00:09:47 horrible yeah i um thank the lord it got better through their career because yeah it was rough with like just the swaying and and they're just like walking back and forth i was just like oh this is so awkward but they sounded pretty good
00:09:47 --> 00:10:14 And I think that's what's important. Yes, of course. You can't bop your way to the top. But, you know, whoever choreographed this should be ashamed. Or not, or not. They got to check. So go ahead. Do your thing. Hey, I guess. I guess. Oh, man. But this is such a strong start to a very strong album. I would say this is definitely a 10 for me. Yes, I agree. This is a 10.
00:10:15 --> 00:10:35 Up next is Just a Little, and this was done by Michelle Escoffery and George Hammond-Haggin, along with John Hammond-Haggin of The Big Pockets. Just a Little was originally written for Anastasia, but Liberty X member Michelle heard the track during a songwriting session and immediately asked for it.
00:10:35 --> 00:10:54 And this was released as the group's third single in May 2002 and became the group's biggest hit, hitting number one in the UK and hitting various charts all over the world. And this song won Best British Single at the 2003 Brit Awards and is still regarded as one of the best 2000s British pop songs.
00:10:55 --> 00:11:15 Oh, it's so good. I tell everyone about this song. Like whenever anyone mentions or asks me about any pop songs that are amazing but did not make it in the U.S., this is always near the top of that list. Because I think it's just a perfect pop song. Yeah.
00:11:15 --> 00:11:41 Like every single element of it is catchy, like from the instrumental, that like electric, that kind of guitar, staccato kind of strum. Just that initial sexy, like everyone immediately knows the song the second they hear that. And then of course the chorus itself is great. And there's all these little iconic moments like Michelle's whispering and then breathy talking all over it. Yeah.
00:11:41 --> 00:12:03 Kevin's part is like, oh, it just brings it up a whole other level there as well. Like every single moment of it is just like pretty perfect, I would say. And I do love that there is this tension that permeates the entire song that just never fully gets relieved, I would say. Like they're constantly asking for a little bit more and they never actually get it.
00:12:03 --> 00:12:20 Yeah. You know, which I think is interesting, kind of keeps your attention. And yeah, Kelly and Jessica leading the verses. I love their dynamic, actually. Because they complement each other very, very well, because they're very, very different. Yes. Yes.
00:12:20 --> 00:12:43 in tone uh and they execute it really well it's it's slinky it's sexy but then it's also kind of they're kind of frustrated in that second verse as well and then kevin like i said like him on that bridge is is such a good so good such a good moment for him uh yeah i i could praise this song every day like i i really all my friends will know this song just because of me i think
00:12:43 --> 00:13:06 That's hysterical. That's a very good song. I am. I can hear Anastasia singing this one for sure. Her raspy voice. So I'll hear it. But I'm glad that Liberty X got it. And yes, I also have the sexy everything. Y'all, my voice is gone, but I can still sing. Let's go. Especially if it's Liberty X. But yeah, I like that part. It's very interesting to kind of hear that. And then.
00:13:06 --> 00:13:24 have Kelly talk about how a love intro, how I'm having a stroke, and then hear how Kelly thinks that someone's so innocent because they're like, you know, not really approaching them the same way that she would approach them. And I think that's very good to have
00:13:25 --> 00:13:46 The girls, I think it's very good to have the girls take charge in this scenario because the assertiveness and the approaching, you know, like the whole, come on, you're so hot. It would not, I don't think it would feel the same if it was a guy singing it. Like if it was Tony and Kevin, it would have been like, okay, get away from me. But because you have these two women with great voices...
00:13:46 --> 00:14:10 confidently approaching the song it sounds so much better um kevin and michelle on the bridge yum love that love that love that love it it's super slinky it's ridiculously cool and i think it has a good balance between the r b the pop and the club like it feels like the kind of track that mystique could have gotten eat as well like it's just so like attitude and sass and like smex
00:14:10 --> 00:14:31 It's cute. But no smacks because they wanted something, whatever that something was. She's like, you know. Yeah, I like it. It's a nice little teasing track. I like it. Yes. And I love the music video. The whole kind of spy themed situation. I believe they said it's based on a movie, but I forget what the name of the movie was. Um...
00:14:31 --> 00:14:55 But yeah, it's super effective. Love the rubber catsuits. The canes are instantly memorable. Yeah. Yeah, I love, like, it's just so silly. All of their activities, like, Jessica's, like, scaling a wall in her heels at one point. And then at the end, they just lose the diamond and they just break character, which I think is pretty funny. Yeah, they're killing it. They look great. And yeah, just a very, very memorable concept for sure.
00:14:55 --> 00:15:20 Yes, indeed. The latex is what stands out to me. And the pimp canes, boy. Those little canes. That's a fire prop to have. Hands down. Chris, you and I should do the routine. Just grab the broomsticks and just go, word. See, I'll do Kelly, and then you can do Tony, because he was giving in the video. He was on the screen. He was like, I'm not going to look at the camera. Smizing. Yes, he was living. He was living.
00:15:20 --> 00:15:46 Yes, also, we had also watched that same night that you came over to watch the concert. We also watched the Pepsi Silver Cliff variety show with Michelle and her crutches. And we have to give props because Michelle, she used those crutches and she did the routine. She had that arm, the arm crutches. I should not laugh. But it was so funny because she was like, hey, guys, I'm playing some football.
00:15:48 --> 00:16:15 You have a show the next day Oh man But yes, perfect pop song This is also a 10 Yes, this is a 10 It's unfortunate because it looks like the standard so high already Oh my gosh, I know Stress Next we have Doing It Which was done by John McLaughlin, Steve Dubery, and Steve Hart And this was released as the group's second single in December 2001 And peaked at number 14 in the UK singles chart Yeah
00:16:15 --> 00:16:37 So, not as successful. It was kind of an awkward time because they had the legal battle over their name. Who wanted it? There was another group that already was named Liberty. Man, please. Yeah. Yeah. Anyway, what do you think of doing it? How is it compared to the two singles around it for you? Hmm...
00:16:39 --> 00:17:04 I think it's not bad. I think it's interesting to have the two guys now being the main voices that you do here. Yeah. I can understand some people being like, who is this? Because when you listen to it, you're like, who is this? You know, seriously, think about it. Like, imagine you heard these two singles and these ladies have been leading the charge. And then suddenly he's like, Liberty X, you hear dudes. You're like, I ain't asked for this. Bring back the ladies. I think it's a good idea because.
00:17:05 --> 00:17:31 Everyone in this group can sing. Everyone in this group can perform. So they have an opportunity to do it. The guys are holding the verse down. Oh, yeah. It does suck that it didn't get, like, a lot of love. Because I think the way it is, it... Maybe because it's a little bit too R&B-ish. I don't know. Something about it does definitely sound different from the bookends that are the other singles. I think it's just a little bit more...
00:17:32 --> 00:17:55 I don't want to say AC, but it is giving a little bit of contemporary. Something about it just feels a little less, like, fun, cool in the club. You can't really shake your booty to this one. I think that kind of is like, mild turnoff. Mild turnoff for some people. I like the song, though. Like, having someone doing it for you is a flex. Like, the dating pool is apparently full of pee. I don't know. But, like, this song...
00:17:56 --> 00:18:11 This song talks about how a person moves and behaves in an addictive way. Like, oh, yes. Like, I love the production style and the pop. Like, the style of pop is like the orchestral hits and the guitar strung. Like, I don't know who created this, like...
00:18:12 --> 00:18:40 sonic and pop but thank you because i'm like addicted to it it's so bad i can't get if i hear it i'm like it's a good song already yeah it's so bad like it's it's easy i'm so easy um i think my favorite part though is probably the bridge it's so simple but they're doing it doing it doing it the harmonies they're so satisfying and it really does like kind of punctuate the meaning of what they feel so i think overall it's not a bad song i think they just got um it's a short stick short stick
00:18:40 --> 00:19:09 Yeah, not a bad song. They just had the short stick on this one. Yeah, I think it's a good song. Yeah, I don't think it's as good as the other two bookends, like you said. But I think it holds its own. Like, the melody is pretty great. There is a warmth to it. And it's quite an even vocal distribution. You do get all five of them here. Yeah. And they all sound really good. And then that chorus blend is so full. Yeah. And you really hear the mix of all five of their voices together. Yeah. Yeah.
00:19:09 --> 00:19:26 And yeah, that bridge is so cool. There's so many things going on in it. There's that do and it do and it do. But then there's like Kevin like wailing over it. And then there's Michelle like doing this kind of like sultry thing over it too. Like it's like a lot, but it's, it climaxes it well, I think.
00:19:26 --> 00:19:43 So yeah, I enjoy it, but I can see, like you said, there is something about it that doesn't hit you quite as quickly as thinking it over or just a little. And I don't think the music video helped. Oh my god.
00:19:43 --> 00:20:02 because that video was not it that was so boring yeah the lighting was good like i like how it felt kind of hot and humid and sweaty a little bit um yeah like i was just watching white lotus this morning because it just started and uh it has that same kind of vibe to it okay you know where everything's just kind of like humid
00:20:02 --> 00:20:25 But then all the effects are so odd, like all that freeze framing and the zoom ins on the dancers and some of the scenes with the dancers are a little awkward. And there's like a two second shot of a group scene where they're like awkwardly just like standing there and you never see that again. So they're never all together other than that one tiny moment. And the video just does nothing for the song.
00:20:25 --> 00:20:46 Yeah, no, I don't. I think the issue is like they're supposed to be in some like a Latin American city. Right. But like it's too pensive looking for a song about being attracted to someone. And like you're so thirsty and you want them so bad. But you're like, I guess I want you. I'm laying on this hammock. I guess I want you. I'm sitting on this bench. Yeah.
00:20:46 --> 00:21:08 Even when they are like vibing with these extras, there's like no real chemistry. That's what I'm saying. I was going to say, I'm at the club. I guess I want you. Like, you know what I'm saying? They look great, but meh. So it doesn't help you, but you're right. You're so right. Yeah. The performances are really good, though. They sang live quite a few times. And the choreo is much better. Oh my god.
00:21:08 --> 00:21:28 much better um the boys still do a little awkward little bob but it's okay uh and that but that vogue that harmony that chorus harmony like that would have convinced me already like if i had never heard thinking it over i was just tuning into top of the pops yeah and i saw them do that i would have been like oh okay i'm here yeah right for this respect okay what do you give it
00:21:29 --> 00:21:50 I'll go 8.5. I'll give this one an 8. Okay. Up next is Wanting Me Tonight. And this was written by all five members of Liberty X, Michelle Escoffery, and KG. Ah, KG. You've seen that name before. We have. All Saints. Guys, speaking of All Saints, we have reviewed both of their albums or the debut. The first two albums. Yeah, yeah.
00:21:50 --> 00:22:19 My bad. I apologize. Can you imagine? That's where it stopped. I mean, that's where the drama started. We had first album and second album, so make sure you definitely go check it out on the podcast platform or on YouTube. Either way, we have them, so check them out. This track was originally planned to be the third single from the album before Just a Little was chosen. Wow. How things change. How things change. I mean, I think it could have been a single. Obviously, it's not as good as Just a Little, but
00:22:19 --> 00:22:45 It could have been a single later on. I mean, I could say that about a lot of this album, to be fair. True. But yeah, I like this one. It's sexy. It's a fun production style to it. There's a groove to it. There's a slinkiness to it. Yeah. And I like the kind of staccato keyboard hits. Oh, yes. Throughout it. Yeah, totally. Yeah, this was a really fun one to sing along to. I think the vocal execution is so good.
00:22:45 --> 00:23:00 And I love that throughout all these songs, on this entire album, honestly, throughout their whole discography, they don't have a real formula with the vocal distribution. Because you get that with steps. And, you know, S Club was basically, you know, only Joe singing the majority anyway.
00:23:00 --> 00:23:26 But, you know, with Steps, it was like, okay, Faye sings the first verse, Clarence sings the second verse. Like, it was always kind of very typical. Yeah, yeah, totally. Liberty X, it never is typical. Yeah. You know, they've all gotten to sing the first verse. They've all gotten to sing a pre-chorus. They've all gotten to sing a bridge. And you kind of never know where it's going. Yeah. And I really appreciate that. Yes. And in this case, Jessica singing those pre-choruses, oh, her tone is so good. Yeah. It's so smooth. Yeah.
00:23:26 --> 00:23:53 And it's quite versatile and really fits this kind of slinky R&B tinged stuff really well. And everyone is pretty much singing with this kind of breathier, kind of sexier tone anyway. Yeah, true. So yeah, I think this one's a highlight on this album. Oh, I also need to shout out all those ad libs at the end. Because again, we get almost all of them get to do some ad libs here too.
00:23:53 --> 00:24:15 Oh, love that. Yes. I guess this is what happens when you have, you know, the members of your group write the songs. Wow. Who would have thunk? There you go. Who would have thunk it? Wow. Um, so yeah, I think with this one, Liberty X is leaning into that late night R&B. Got the smooth harmonies, the sultry production with the little plucky, um.
00:24:15 --> 00:24:41 keys that sound like tom and jerry it gives me cat and mouse i'm gonna say tom and jerry not to be like kind of goofy but it gives like chase me yes oh yes so kelly takes the lead here which i think is nice as well um showcasing the the she has a good emotion she's good at emoting well um but it doesn't sound like super dramatic which i appreciate and like you said jessica sounds really good too i think the female vocalist in this group it is so easy to kind of like
00:24:42 --> 00:25:01 get lost in the sauce as a female in a girl group. But because this is co-ed, they sound different, but they all compliment each other really well, which is important. Can't just be like, oh yeah, she sounds like this. Yeah, but I sound like this. Girl, you don't fit in this group. You know? So it's good to kind of...
00:25:01 --> 00:25:19 they all match very well. I feel like the song itself feels like a distant cousin to Destiny Child's writing on the wall era. It just feels like the... Because I think the Oz... Let me stop singing. I think the Oz... Yes. ...throughout is something that Destiny Child could have done, would have done. Um...
00:25:19 --> 00:25:49 I also have in my notes that it's very smexy and straightforward and that the vocal distribution is solid. So, yeah, I feel exactly the same way as you. I feel like this is a solid song. Even when you were talking about I was singing the song in my head. So, yeah, I like this one for sure. And it could have been a single. I agree. Oh, yeah. And the tour performance is great, too. Like the way they separated the girls and the boys. And you do have that kind of cat and mouse kind of thing that you were just saying. Yeah. And then they all just step back and let the dancers take over so they can sing the Oz live song.
00:25:49 --> 00:26:03 Yeah. We love that. Look at that. So dancing with her whole body. Okay. So I give this one a nine. I give this one a nine as well. Okay. I have to think about it. Okay. I'm trying to think about too many point fives.
00:26:04 --> 00:26:21 Yo, my scores are high for this album. Spoiler alert. You know, you're right. It's a strong album. Yes. Okay, moving on to Got to Have Your Love. And this was done by Curtis Mantronic, Bryce Wilson, Johnny D. Rodriguez, Rod Gammons, and Nick Hickman.
00:26:21 --> 00:26:42 And this is actually a cover of the 80s track by American group Mantronics featuring Wondrous. And the song was released as a single in September 2002 and peaked at number two in the UK singles chart. And the music video was filmed in Jamaica. Jamaica, Jamaica. Okay, so did you know the original of this song?
00:26:42 --> 00:27:09 Surprisingly, no. But something about it did sound familiar to me. It definitely had that old school co-ed. Not co-ed. That old school kind of R&B vibe that was very popular. Yes. I'm looking at the chart positions here. So it did very well in the UK. It hit number four in the UK. But in the US, it peaked at number 82 on the Billboard Hot 100. And there was apparently a hot black singles chart.
00:27:09 --> 00:27:33 Yep. The Black Singles. And this was number 26. Yep. Yes. What an awkward name for a category. Glad we changed that. But yes, I think because maybe it was a UK based kind of thing. It wasn't something that was going to pop out. Like, you know, it's not like a Sanford and Ash kind of thing, you know. But I will say after listening to the original.
00:27:34 --> 00:27:50 I think the song is a great choice for them. It fits the group's overall sound of the album thus far. Love, attraction, and wanting to create a connection. And honestly, if it ain't broke, don't fix it. Like, this sounds exactly like the original, but the harmony...
00:27:50 --> 00:28:20 But the harmonies do take it up a notch. And having the guys in the group really makes everything sound more full. And keeps the feelings expressed in the song feel mutual. As opposed to like someone like pleading for someone's attention. It feels like a mutual vie for the affection, you know? So I appreciate that for sure. Kelly and Kevin's harmonies in the second verse. Until my dying day. Until my dying day. Hey, come through. Come through. Yes. Yes.
00:28:20 --> 00:28:49 Yeah, I have a lot of the same notes. I had never heard the original before we did this review. I knew it was a cover, but I never, you know, bothered to actually go and listen to it. But yeah, it's funny. It's like literally the same. But, you know, they did make it a little bit more bright, right? They added, like the bass line is a little funkier. There's some guitars and kind of just more things going on in the back. A lot of twinkles and sparkles and stuff. Yes, yes, yes. But yeah, props to whichever A&R found this random song for them.
00:28:49 --> 00:29:08 I would say Yeah Cause yeah I pretty much have The same notes as you That the harmonies Are really what Makes their version Elevate the song Cause the chorus Is quite repetitive Gotta find a way To get into your heart Kinda Just over and over again Love Yeah Hey Um
00:29:08 --> 00:29:38 So having all of the layers and stuff and having them alternate between Kelly and Kevin and kind of add, singing each line kind of a little differently each time around was definitely helpful. I also love that Michelle has suddenly turned into like the Lisa of the group where she just gets to whisper and talk over everything. I'm in tears. And Tony gets a little too, got to have your love or whatever. I'm in tears. Yes. So accurate. Yeah.
00:29:38 --> 00:30:00 Yes. And the music video, I mean, it's literally, okay, we've now had a successful single. So now fly us out to a beautiful location and we'll also film a music video for you there on vacation. That's hilarious. The video was okay. It was okay. It was okay. Not much happens. No, it's something like, you know, looking hot. I think Jessica looks so good.
00:30:01 --> 00:30:30 Moken in her outfit. Oh my gosh. She's a baddie. Yeah. The girls are looking great. I mean, you could clearly tell that a man probably directed this because those boys. Yes. What were they wearing? Like shadows. They're wearing like black or like full, full, like full pants and long sleeves. No linens. No linens. I was like, okay, if you had someone with a different gaze come in here. Yeah. They would be giving the boys, they'd be showing them off a little bit more. Yeah.
00:30:30 --> 00:30:51 Yes. Oh, my God. They looked hot. I mean, like, not like Jessica Michelle hot. They looked like hot because they were sweating hot. Yes. Oh, my. I loved I loved Kelly's outfit with the go go boots and the shorts. Oh, yeah. Oh, my God. What a look. So, yeah, there was moments I was like, oh, yes. Oh, yes. But overall.
00:30:52 --> 00:31:10 But overall, meh. Meh. What the heck? Yeah. Also, I assume they have a new choreographer at this point. Unless this Thinking It Over guy improved a lot. Thinking It Over Guy. But this has some decent choreo. There's a lot of footwork and a lot of grooves and stuff.
00:31:10 --> 00:31:36 All they needed was some more formation changes And this would be such a perfect Like pop routine Yeah, yeah, I agree I was impressed with that It was so funny Picking it over guys, crazy Crazy work Okay, so I give this one a 9.5 I kind of wanted to I wanted to give it to Wanting Me Tonight I'm not going to lie to you But I think this one I can give one out now I can give one out I like this one
00:31:36 --> 00:31:49 Okay, I'll do a nine. Okay, respect, respect. Up next is No Clouds, and this was done by Mushtag and Jessica, Kelly, Kevin, and Tony of Liberty X.
00:31:49 --> 00:32:13 I think my first encounter with the song was with the acoustic version, like the tour version. Yes, on tour, yeah. Right? Okay, okay. This is when they brought that little sister out? Yes, Kevin's sister, yeah. Okay, yes, no clouds. Okay, so we finally have our first kind of more slightly slower moment here, more mid-tempo-y. The song is very happy.
00:32:14 --> 00:32:28 I think they mentioned on that concert performance that they, like, just were outside one day and it was really sunny and they were all just in a good mood. Yeah. And you could feel that. Like, it does feel like a bunch of friends, like...
00:32:28 --> 00:32:54 having a picnic or something at the park or at the beach or something yeah picnic yeah um and yeah i appreciate that the verses and chorus lyrics are not too cheesy like it could it could have gone that way very easily but they kind of used this angle of like there's a lot of negative crap going on in our lives but now's the time just like
00:32:54 --> 00:33:21 letting that go and enjoying life at this point. So it's almost like they're at like the last stage of grief or something. And they're just like ready to move on from whatever they've been going through in life. So I think having that as kind of the like overlying story kept it from being too like a kid's song, you know? Yeah. The rap though, the rap is very cheesy and I wish it wasn't in it. Uh,
00:33:21 --> 00:33:49 and I think it's hilarious when I think it's hilarious how British people tend to take on they kind of either they take the two extremes like either they really emphasize their British accent yeah or they go the opposite and they try to do an American accent yes what is that I'm confused very interesting yeah I I don't need the rap but I enjoy the rest of the song what do you think
00:33:49 --> 00:34:09 You know, this one is sweet and bright. I will say that the storytelling in the song is cute, but it is cheesy for me. It reminds, like, that first verse reminds me so much of Rebecca Black's Friday, where they talk about getting up for the day and preparing for it. Oh, my gosh. You know? And that's cereal. Like, it doesn't...
00:34:09 --> 00:34:32 Shout out to Rebecca for being able to like come back and make amazing music, by the way. Yes, that's right. Oh, she's been disgusting lately. I love it. But yeah, this one for me, like, oh God, that first verse took me out. I was like, what is this? Go into the beach, la-da-da-da-da, and get something to eat. And then I was like, get me out of here. Oh my God. The second verse, though, it does talk about the negative thing that has happened before the trip to the beach. Yeah.
00:34:32 --> 00:34:54 Yeah, I guess the breakup from the person that you met at the club, you're like, damn, it didn't work out. OK, whatever. But yeah, I feel like it is nice in terms of like the sentiment, but it doesn't quite stand out amongst the stronger or more dynamic tracks. And like I was already kind of out with that rap. Oh, my God. Miss Congeniality. Go off this. Whoo. I'm not going to lie to you.
00:34:54 --> 00:35:20 Talented group, beautiful group, gorgeous gowns, beautiful gowns. But, like, the rap, that took me out. Like, it brought the bar down. Like, it was already low-ish. You mean for the song? Not for the song. I mean, eventually, like, the bar was like, okay, yeah, it was really high. But then the song was playing. I was like, ooh, okay. How am I going to get my score over this? At this point, I'm not going to be nice with the score. I'm not going to be nasty about it. But the song is not...
00:35:20 --> 00:35:45 I will say the acoustic ones are better. Like I almost wish they just produced it that way instead of kind of the super bright poppy way. And in the end of the acoustic performance, they added like a more kind of gospel-y outro to it. Yeah. Which I much prefer. It takes it up and makes it feel more spiritual. And I think that would have helped a little bit. Yeah.
00:35:45 --> 00:36:09 But yeah, I actually like the melody of the song, so I don't actually mind it. I would just cut the rap, so I'll give it an 8 still. So what are you doing? I don't remember the melody of the song, so I'm going to give it a 7. Oh, okay. A 6.5. Okay, well, you don't just have to change it just because I said that. No, no, I'm trying to be nice. I'll give it a 7. It's okay.
00:36:10 --> 00:36:33 Moving on to Every Day, which was done by Kevin and Tony of Liberty X, John O'Mahoney, and Michael Harwood. What do you think of this one? Every Day. There's a drama in this one that isn't in the others. There's desperation that Kevin delivers in that chorus. And then he goes into his head voice. Yum. Yum.
00:36:33 --> 00:37:02 Tony sounds like such a pop boy on the second verse. His voice is very much like what I think of a boy band, like lead singer, you know? He sounds tender in his solo parts. And then for the bridge, which I was surprised that he got, he really takes it home. I would say even though his voice isn't as husky as Kevin's, he uses his voice properly to convey tense emotions. I think that's more important than having like a specific tone. If you're able to actually articulate what...
00:37:02 --> 00:37:27 with technique and um yeah with technique mostly i think you can do it could kevin do it absolutely but if you have another guy who's absolutely good at singing to let him do it um the girls harmonies make the song sound more fuller and it adds the tension i think um i feel like this is a solid track in terms of um like they're more quote-unquote angstier ones it's solid
00:37:27 --> 00:37:52 It's solid. Yeah. I really hate the production. You've got, again, kind of the UK garage drums. You've got this kind of warping bass. And of course, you have the dramatic keyboard strings. So there's just an overall intensity to it that I enjoy. And yeah, I love the boys' dynamic. They have the same kind of dynamic that Kelly and Jessica have. Yeah.
00:37:52 --> 00:38:12 And Michelle kind of ties all five together in a way. She kind of has elements of all five of their vocal tones, which is kind of interesting. But yeah, I love their dynamic. Because like you said, they're kind of opposite in every way. Kevin has the really full, raspy, kind of soulful thing. And then Tony has like, yeah, the Nick Carter, like kind of...
00:38:12 --> 00:38:33 thing that kind of like nasally thin um push that he has uh so yeah i really really appreciate that and the lyrics tell a story too like it's more contemplative in the verses then the chorus is this full like confession and release of their feelings but then the bridge he's like
00:38:33 --> 00:38:50 almost mad at himself for letting himself reveal his emotions and he gets kind of dismissive like it's very interesting and yeah i agree with you then the girls yeah they add like a softness to all of it um and their harmonies are so beautiful and i love the way that they
00:38:50 --> 00:39:20 are given a moment to shine as the song ends. Because then the girls are all pushed up and are then leading the choruses while Kevin is then like ad-libbing his face off. So it's kind of cool. Like again, you still get to hear all five properly. Even though it really is just the two boys singing it. But yeah, this one's really good. And the tour performance is so good for sure. Solid. So yeah, I give this one a nine. I like angsty. I give this one a 9.5. Ooh, okay.
00:39:20 --> 00:39:38 Up next is Saturday. And this was done by Michelle Escoffery and Mushtag and Tim Laws. All right. Okay. This one is... It feels a little undercooked. I think this is the first song...
00:39:39 --> 00:40:04 that feels like filler. Oh. Like, honestly, I could see every single one of these songs so far that we talked about up until this one could have been a single. Even No Clouds, I think if they were going for the more kind of a younger children's television kind of audience, it would have worked in that sense. The song itself, I think, is actually decent, right? It just depends on what kind of audience you're going for. But this one...
00:40:04 --> 00:40:27 Especially that chorus, because I actually think the melody of the verses is decent, but the lyrics are so basic. Like, it feels like someone in high school or college just complaining about schoolwork and needing to study. And they have this glorified idea of what it's like to be an adult and get to go to the club every night.
00:40:27 --> 00:40:49 Oh my god, yeah. That's what it feels like. It's like the lyrics. I don't want to read no books and make sure I'm looking cool and stuff. I'm just like, oh god. It's just so cringy and it just feels not genuine at all. And then the chorus, the melody is just so... And it doesn't go anywhere. Yeah. Move my body.
00:40:50 --> 00:41:06 Like, it's like, okay. Like, that's, oh, that's it. You know? Vocal blend sounds great, though. Like, we get this little acapella moment at the end, and, you know, the harmonies are there. Yeah. But, yeah, this is one I, I'm going to be honest, I have not actually heard the song in years, because I skip it.
00:41:06 --> 00:41:31 Oh, wow. Shots fired. Shots fired. You know, this is like a suburban girls anthem. Small town. Putting down the books and going to the other side to have fun. The other side of town. The melody of the song is okay. Yeah. The lyrics are not okay. I will say that I think that the slight key change toward the end was cute, I guess. Oh, it helped. It helped. Yeah. Yeah.
00:41:31 --> 00:41:53 But that's about it. Like the vocally edited adlib over the chorus I thought was cool at the end. But yeah, I mean, it's okay. I will say that Clouses, no Clouses is better. I would say that. So I think that's a little bit of a spoiler what the score is going to be this time around. Okay, so what are you giving it? 6.5.
00:41:54 --> 00:42:24 Yeah, okay, I'll match you, actually. 6.5 feels right. Yes. It feels right. Okay, moving on to Holding On For You, and this was done by Tim Olaz, Fraser Hurl, Martin Prime, and Jessica Kelly, Kevin and Tony of Liberty X. And this was remixed and released as the fifth and final single from the album in December 2002, peaking at number five in the UK singles chart, and the music video was filmed in...
00:42:24 --> 00:42:33 in Budapest in its like metro stations and trains, I guess. Yeah. So the final single off the album, what do you think of this one?
00:42:33 --> 00:42:59 Okay. I can't lie to you. It's the most I've heard, Michelle. You get a whisper in the beginning, her lean the second verse along with Tony. Jessica is taken on the bulk of the, was it the first verse and then the pre. And the chorus. Yes. I love her voice. I like this more pop leaning song. I like it. The lyrics are so sweet. Yeah.
00:42:59 --> 00:43:19 And so honest. It's like talking about being far away from someone, being surrounded by temptations, but still wanting one person. Okay? It's called self-control, people. It's called discipline. Okay? All right? We need to start practicing this. Okay? It's really sweet. I like that. I think the holding on phrase, repeated, really stands out. And also...
00:43:19 --> 00:43:47 Holds on to the idea of what the song means. Like, it's a good song if you're far away from someone. Or if you're, like, at school. Or if you're in the army. Or whatever. Shoot. If you're on tour, as they are. Or they were, rather. They can sing this to their loved ones. It's definitely a very sweet love letter to whoever. I will say the video was just okay. But tell me how you feel about this. Yeah, we'll get to the video. Yeah, the song is so...
00:43:47 --> 00:44:12 good it's so so good and it's so unique as well i don't think i can really name another kind of mid-tempo pop group yeah song like this because even structurally uh like the chorus itself alone like the chorus alone is actually quite interesting because it's not a super obvious chorus it almost sounds like a pre yes but then halfway you're like oh wait it's a chorus
00:44:12 --> 00:44:34 Yeah.
00:44:34 --> 00:44:53 This song is made for Jessica's voice. Yeah. It's so smooth and sweet and vulnerable as well. And yeah, she also, like, she gets to do those holding on parts. And it sounds so good. It sounds so good. And then Kelly really takes it home, like,
00:44:53 --> 00:45:22 At the end like she sounds so warm In that bridge and then she gets to do the final Chorus as well So yeah this is up there as one of my favorite Liberty X songs I would Say yeah But the music video What is going on Here It was giving like Magazine come to life Perfume ad I don't like it Yes I also Said it was like a fashion shoot Or something
00:45:22 --> 00:45:41 yeah i mean it was okay they never actually come together like what are you actually holding on to except the smizes well except at the end when tony when kelly's in the train and the door opens and tony is just like creepily staring at him and then doesn't get in she's like what's up and like come on i was like what's happening
00:45:41 --> 00:46:11 It was weird. Yeah, I thought they were all taking the train or traveling in various ways to get to each other. Exactly. Hello, hello. Yeah, like, what? That was so bizarre. But you know what? They look great. You know, when Jessica is, like, walking down the street and stuff, and when Kelly is, like, next to the waiting, I was like, okay, you look great. Right. You look amazing. Yeah. But what are we doing? Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. A bit odd.
00:46:11 --> 00:46:29 station like did they need to go to budapest for this is it budapest budapest maybe they were they were doing like promo maybe or they like the yellow chairs they were like that's it that's so funny okay but yes i love this song i will give it a 10
00:46:29 --> 00:46:48 Oh, I changed mine from a 10. Oh. Yeah. I give this one a 9.5. Okay. Not that far. Up next is I Got What You Want. And this was done by Alan Glass, David Brandt, Mary Ann Morgan, and Jessica and Kelly of Liberty XS.
00:46:48 --> 00:47:11 yes yeah so you mentioned those strings earlier that was so popular during the 2000s this goes crazy with it oh my god yeah so many layers of these affected kind of like keyboard strings uh yeah i love this song i love the way the vocals are arranged and mixed there's just so many layers and there's like octaves and harmonies and and you kind of get
00:47:11 --> 00:47:40 kind of different combos of them kind of singing all over each other as well. It just makes it a really fun listen. Yeah. And there's a sexiness to this one. Like, I think even just the way it's written, it's all quite low. And the girls are mainly just using their head voices as well. And then the way they're singing, it just sounds really confident. So yeah, this one's a highlight as well for me. And I love Jessica and Tony ad-libbing all over each other at the end.
00:47:40 --> 00:47:56 it's so satisfying like this group i love that all five of them can do ad libs oh my god you know i love an ad lib yes they take full advantage for sure yes please go off thank you um i think this one like you said has brought back all that stuff
00:47:56 --> 00:48:13 Um, it's confident hip hop and hip hop inflections in it. Um, I guess you need to say R&B. I think that the lines, uh, no need for shyness because it ain't rocket science is hilarious. Um, cause it's true. I mean, at this point she's like, listen.
00:48:14 --> 00:48:43 what you trying to do? Because I'm trying to do you, you know? There is a drama that is added with the strings in the chorus, right? You know? It makes me think of a scene from an opera that takes place in a club. Yeah? Yeah, it was like twerking to the strings. So, yeah, like you mentioned, I think the lower register that's being leaned toward in the chorus, it just makes the group
00:48:44 --> 00:49:04 sound cool with such a melodramatic track. You know? Because they could have easily made it really bright and they would have sounded like S Club 7 or sounded like Steps, but instead or their competition. You've only heard Pure and Simple, right? You've never heard the other songs? I listened to some.
00:49:04 --> 00:49:34 Okay. You know. Let us know if you guys want us to do a hearsay episode. I'll be nice. I'll be nice if it's good. But the ones I've heard. Okay. I like the outro of the instruments. I thought usually outros with just instruments bother me. But this one didn't. So I think I liked all of it all together. It made me go. So yeah, I'm into it. Mm-hmm. I give this one a nine. Oh. I'll give this one an 8.5. Okay. Yes.
00:49:34 --> 00:49:57 Moving on to Feel the Rush. This was done by Henrik Anderson, John McLaughlin, Martin and Kellyus, and Steve Dewberry. Dewberry. What a name. Yes. All right. So this song is interesting. I feel like this one feels like the perfect pop song.
00:49:58 --> 00:50:28 It would have been interesting. The thing is with me, I don't want to keep poop-talking Hearsay, but this would have been an interesting release in terms of their competitors because Hearsay was releasing a little bit more brighter of a sound and more pop-leaning stuff. So this would have been an interesting kind of like, what you got? Who got the best pure pop sound, bro? You know? So this is not me pooping on them, so don't be mad, y'all. The song has an undeniable catchiness.
00:50:28 --> 00:50:50 um like i could hear britney singing it like without a doubt or another girl group or even backstreet without nick you know i could hear them singing it and i think that's good it definitely sounds like something that was popular out here um in the u.s so i think that's also why i kind of leaning toward liking it a little bit more but yeah i like this one i like it a lot
00:50:50 --> 00:51:17 Yeah, talk about single potential. This had so much potential. Right? Yeah, for sure. I even remember back when I first heard this album when I was, what, like 12? This was up there. This was one of my absolute favorites. For sure. And it still is. It still is. Because, yeah, there's such a good energy to it. There's a push, right? Like they are in a genuine rush to make this person feel the rush.
00:51:17 --> 00:51:33 Yes. Which I love. And yeah, just again, just a great example of good pop writing. Like there's so many little hooks in there. Na, na, na, na, na. Which only happens like a few times in the song. But then you already know it. Like from the second it starts, you get the...
00:51:33 --> 00:52:00 Like leading into the chorus These are just like I mean yes these types of hooks are used In so many pop songs but there's a reason They're just so catchy and they work Yes And I love that Michelle and Tony Get to shine a bit more in this one As well because they are shafted A little bit more compared to the other three Yeah they are Not a ton The vocal distribution overall is quite good with this group
00:52:00 --> 00:52:26 But, you know, you want to give everyone their moment. A little bit. Yeah. Yeah. But, yeah, I love the tour performance for this, too. Because it is. It's just, like, it's such a good track that, really, it's hard not to have your heart, like, go up a little bit, you know? Yeah. Kind of get into it. Yeah. Yeah. So this one's also a 10 for me. Yeah, I gave this one a 10 as well. Dang, so many 10s on this album. Yeah, that's crazy. Are we doing too much? No. No. Never enough. No. No.
00:52:27 --> 00:52:46 Up next is right here, right now. And this was done by Andrea Ramonda, Michael Harwood, Nick Keens, John Mahoney, and Kevin and Tony of Liberty X. Yes. Another Kevin and Tony co-write here. Yes. Yeah, I like the vibe of this one.
00:52:46 --> 00:53:16 A lot. It brings back the UK garage kind of elements, but at this time it's a bit brighter. So it's a bit more warm compared to some of the other ones. And the vocal dynamic, again, is what really elevates it. You have Kevin kind of leading the majority of it, right? He leads the chorus. And again, you get kind of all these little combos of duos and trios and stuff, singing harmonies and having different moments. And the chorus is very, very easy to sing along to.
00:53:16 --> 00:53:34 Not slow. Like it's just dragged out. Right here. Right now. It's like so easy to catch on to. Yeah. And again, it's those ad libs, man. Those ad libs are so good. They switch it up. Jessica gets a moment. Kelly gets a moment. I'm here for it.
00:53:35 --> 00:54:00 for it. This song is great. It's fun. Yeah, it brought back the garage sound that the other singles, the other tracks were kind of like stepping away from. So it kind of ties it back to what was happening into the beginning of the song. I mean, beginning of the album, excuse me. It feels kind of ballad-ish, but not too like dragged out. I get what you're saying about the kind of the mid-tempo situation that's going on. Yeah. I mean, at this point,
00:54:01 --> 00:54:16 like you said, it's nice to hear other people's voices, um, and let them, let them kind of shine. Um, but there, for real, there really has been a great deal of complimentary vocal distribution. And I think that's really important. Like, yeah, there's multiple members in the group, like who sounds good, where, um,
00:54:16 --> 00:54:41 And it feels like there's a lot of thought put into it. I will say that whoever is picking who's going where, everyone understands the assignment and they know a moat very well. I would say like Kevin's pre-hook head voice moment and in the chorus are standouts moments for me. But yeah, I like the lyrics of this one. This song makes healthy relationships sound cool, you know? And I feel like this song...
00:54:41 --> 00:55:08 It feels like the enthusiastic response to holding on to you that the album needs. Because when you have like kind of like sad-ish songs, it's good to have something to follow up that doesn't sound exactly the same that could almost serve as like a response or as like similar emotion. Yes. You know, it's important to have those kind of things. So I feel like this one definitely executes that very well, very well. Mm-hmm. Okay, so I will give it a nine. Ooh! Yeah.
00:55:10 --> 00:55:38 Okay, I'll match you. I'll match you. Okay. I'll match you. Okay, next we have Dream About It, which is done by Fraser Hurl, Tim Laws, and all five members of Liberty X. Yes. So are we going to go in or just stand outside all night? Is that Michelle? Because that's hilarious. It is. She's so funny. She's so sassy. The girls are back, honey, and they're taking charge. Yes. Like, hello, are we here to dance? We are here to dance. Yes.
00:55:38 --> 00:56:01 So let's do that. I'm not here. I'm not looking for anything serious. What are you doing? Get out my face. And I like, not get out my face, but like, serve your purpose. Know your place. Yes, that's what it is. Serve your purpose. Know your place. That's what it is. I'm trying to bump and grind with my body to the beat. Okay? Not in between the sheets. All right? I love how the song is written, and I especially appreciate how...
00:56:02 --> 00:56:21 the beat stops when Kelly says that she doesn't want to stop. I think things like that make songs even better because you want to have a songwriter understand what the music's doing and be complimentary to it and supplement the song with creative moments like that. Um, the girls harmonies sound so good. Um, um,
00:56:21 --> 00:56:43 And I love how it sounds in my ears, especially on the second verse. There's panning that's happening left and right, left and right. That's so interesting. Again, when you're listening to it on headphones or even in your car or wherever you're listening to it at that time, what, 2002? It's nice to be able to hear something like this and kind of be like, oh, what was that? It kind of tickles a part of your brain. It tickles your ear. Yeah.
00:56:43 --> 00:56:59 It keeps you engaged with what's happening with the song. The bridge harmonies are fire. And then we get a synth solo. I would say this song isn't like anything else on the album. Yeah. Which makes it something fun to listen to, but also it's very good. Yeah.
00:56:59 --> 00:57:20 Yes. Yeah, very good. Yeah. It leans on the more mature side, I would say, of the album. And yeah, it's another one that you could see like a Danity Kane or something singing this song. Yeah. But because we have two boys here, then we get... I love the way the boys are used because... Yeah.
00:57:20 --> 00:57:34 You just get a different angle. Like the boys are completely not aware that the girls are not thinking about any future. And they're like, yeah, like she dreams about me. She wants me. She wants me dog. She wants me dog. Yeah.
00:57:35 --> 00:57:55 And I love that. And then they sound so good. Like just in those four lines. They only get those four lines that they repeat over and over again. Yeah. And the harmonies are so, so good. So I just love that whole dynamic. It's just fun storytelling. And again, it just gives, it just takes full advantage of the fact that you have both girls and boys to work with here. Yeah.
00:57:55 --> 00:58:10 But yeah, of course, this is the girls' song for sure. They balance the sexiness, the sassiness so well. I do wish it didn't fade out because you actually can hear Jessica doing this little post-chorus sexy moment and then we never hear the end of it.
00:58:11 --> 00:58:39 We hear like three of the four lines, I think. Yeah. And then it just fades away. So it's unfortunate. You know what? It leaves you wanting more. It does. You know? It does. I love this one. This one's a highlight on the album for me. Yeah, same. I give this one a 10. I like this one a lot. Oh, it's so hard. I will go 9.5 because I do prefer a few. I prefer a few of the others just a little bit more. Oh, that's so valid. I don't blame you. Ay, ay, ay, ay, ay. All right, y'all.
00:58:40 --> 00:59:08 We are at, well, already. Jeez Louise. We are at the final track of this album. If you made it this far, duh. Subscribe. Duh. What are you doing? Duh. And also, leave your comments. Let us know what scores you give each of these songs as well, guys. Okay? So, yeah. Here we are. Last track, Never Give Up. And it was done by Michael Harwood, John O'Mahoney, Jessica Kelly, Kevin Antony of Liberty XXXXXX.
00:59:08 --> 00:59:31 Yes. With the echo. Yeah, so this is interesting. It's an outro. I'm glad they used it as an outro rather than an intro, actually. Because they kind of just were like, you know what? Our music is awesome and we're going to let it speak for itself. Yeah. And now that you've heard the whole thing and see how amazing we are. Yes. We're now going to tell you our story of resilience. Yes.
00:59:31 --> 00:59:57 I mean, cheers. Because literally... And our fight against the people who were so mean to us after we lost pop stars. Oh my god. Yeah. But yeah, the production reminds me a lot of kind of the Swedish, you know, Backstreet Boys, NSYNC stuff. Yeah. That came, you know, the few years before. And it's interesting how the start of it is actually the most intense. And then the beat kind of just falls away and you get this kind of...
00:59:57 --> 01:00:21 kind of ethereal kind of situation. And then it slowly, like, just like the production gets less and less until it becomes acapella. Like, I find that very interesting because it just goes against the general pop structure, I guess. Yeah. Yeah, great harmonies here, of course. And I appreciate that they didn't try to just drag it out into a full song. You know, they were like, yes, we can say what we need to in one verse. Like, here we go.
01:00:22 --> 01:00:50 I'm in tears. You know, this is like what I would consider a proper outro for sure. Yeah. This one has like, I like the pop sound with the flair of rock guitar. So I don't want to call it like pop rock, but there is like a rockish kind of sound. Yeah. But yeah, I appreciate it. It's a challenge. It's bold. It's also a statement about them as a group. So it has all this, we've been even looked down upon, but also watch me work. Yeah. You know, hold my beer.
01:00:50 --> 01:01:20 We're about to hit you guys with another good album. But yeah, I think this is a good ending for a song. And I like that it's not too long either. Because honestly, like, what more can you say? The album's already really good. And for you to sit there and have a sob story at the end. Like, okay. It would have been too much. So I think it was succinct enough to convey their emotions and their thoughts behind the whole process. And yeah, it was good. It was good. Yes, I give it an 8. Yes, I also give this an 8 to...
01:01:20 --> 01:01:45 Okay. Oh, man. So at the end of the standard album release, there are so many B-sides off of this album. And that's because they released it in Japan first and the track listing was a bit different. Yeah. And of course, with all the different singles, they all had multiple B-sides. So since this is our first Liberty X episode, we weren't entirely sure of the demand. Yeah. So you need to let us know.
01:01:45 --> 01:02:09 If you want us to do more Liberty X, we could do the B sides of this album. We have two more albums as well. So definitely give us some love. Let us know you want more. Yes. Okay. So before we end the episode, we're at our cut or keep section. So this is where we have to choose one song to cut from the album. And if you're only allowed to keep one song, what would it be?
01:02:09 --> 01:02:32 Oh, God. Let's do a cut because I think I know what it is for both of us, actually. Oh, yeah? I mean, maybe you'll surprise me, but I will choose Saturday. Like I said, I forgot it even existed. No, me too, actually. Like, No Clouds, as cheesy as I think it is. It has a place, I think, on the album. I'm not sure about a place, but I like it more than Saturday. Yeah.
01:02:33 --> 01:02:57 Someone's going to drag me in the comments. Oh, man. I will say, mentioning the B-sides, there are some really good B-sides. So why did Saturday make it onto the album when these did not? You know. Please explain. You know, that's a good question. I would like to know myself. But you know, I agree. Saturday, Sabado, gotta go. Yes. Okay. And to keep. Oh, God. Okay.
01:02:57 --> 01:03:27 I won't choose a single because otherwise it'd be just a little, obviously. I will go with... I'm like looking at this track list like, oh no. I love this album. I think it's one of the best British pop albums ever. Yes. So I... Oh my gosh. Oh, I'm looking too. I know. Damn. Okay. I... Oh my God, I could pick so many of these. I know. I will go with... I will go with Fielder Rush.
01:03:28 --> 01:03:39 Oh, dang it. Yeah. That's a good one. I never get bored of it. That's a good one. Okay, now you called it. Okay. Excuse me. You know what?
01:03:43 --> 01:04:12 Because it appeals to my R&B sensibilities, I will give it to Every Day. I think that one. I would keep that one. Yes. Okay. Love that. Shout out to Kevin and Tony. Good song. Okay. So, you weren't too familiar with this group until like a few weeks ago, basically. True that. So, what do you think of this album? And yeah, what are your impressions of Liberty X? You know...
01:04:13 --> 01:04:30 I'm trying to think. I don't... I remember us talking about Liberty X maybe like years ago. I think I showed you just a little probably. It's like a rite of passage to be my friend. I'm in tears. That's hysterical. I do remember the Canes
01:04:30 --> 01:04:54 Yeah. The pimp sticks. So that worked. But yeah, no, I think this is a solid album. I think it's probably one of the better albums I've heard in terms of like writing, vocal distribution, melody. I think it's a solid album. I really don't understand why I did not know about it, but I'm glad I do now. But yeah.
01:04:54 --> 01:05:16 I think I only knew thinking it over because of the garage sound. I really like UK garage for like early 2000s, like early 2010s. I was into it. But yeah, this is a solid album by a solid group. It does kind of make me wonder what happened in the second album. Because I remember you telling me like things kind of went a little south for them in the second album. A sophomore slump. Quality wise, I would say that album is very good.
01:05:17 --> 01:05:41 No, no, in terms of attention and, like, appreciation of it. Yeah, I think... Popularity-wise, they dipped a little bit. Yeah, which stinks. I feel like they're a solid group. They deserved more. That's what I will say. Yeah. Yeah, they deserved more. Yeah. I mean, I said it earlier. I do think it's one of the best albums of that era and of those groups. Like, I genuinely can say...
01:05:42 --> 01:06:11 like 90% of this album could have been a single. That's how strong it is. And they established their identity so well. And like you said, maybe it is because they co-wrote the majority of the album. Like it feels so genuine and you get to hear all five of them so well. And the chemistry and blend is so unique. You know, there's no other co-ed group that has done this way of writing. Yeah.
01:06:12 --> 01:06:30 And I still can't believe that no one has tried to emulate it more, actually. It's weird. It's weird. It's super weird. But Liberty X fully deserves their flowers. Yeah. Like, I think even now, everyone remembers just a little, of course. Mm-hmm. But there's so much more to their discography.
01:06:30 --> 01:06:54 So I'm hoping they one day get a kind of Sophiela Spexter moment Where one of their songs gets put in a movie Or something and they're given a moment Because they really deserve it, I think Some attention for that So yeah, as an album I will give it a 9 out of 10 Yeah, you know what?
01:06:55 --> 01:07:15 Let me think about my scores. I could kind of throw a six in there. Yeah, if I got to replace Saturday with a B-side and add another one or two B-sides, it'd be a 10, I think. That's valid. Yeah. Dang it. All right. Considering it was the first album. Yeah. I like it this much.
01:07:16 --> 01:07:38 You know what? I'll match you. I'll give you. I'll give it a nine. I'll give it a nine. Yeah. Saturday. And no clouds for you a little bit. Oh, God. Yes. Okay. So, fans, what do you all think about the Liberty X debut album? Let us know in the comments. And let us know if you want more Liberty X.
01:07:38 --> 01:08:07 from our show or if there's other artists you want to hear us talk about, definitely let us know. And if you want priority choice, you can join us at Patreon on patreon.com slash cctvpops. We're also on social media at cctvpops. So for now, don't forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for our YouTube channel. And if you're enjoying the show on a podcast platform, please give us a follow, rating, and review. Until next time, that's Chantel. That's Chris. Signing off from CCTV, the nonstop pop show.
01:08:08 --> 01:08:17 Sexy. Everything about you's so sexy.